Map-winged Swift
Common NameMap-winged Swift
Scientific NameHepialus fusconebulosa
FamilyHepialidae
SubfamilyHepialinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, white
HabitatGrasslands, heathland, moorland, fens, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (including Siberia, Mongolia, China, Japan)
Host Plantsgrasses, bracken, dock, dandelion
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the ground, and the larvae feed on the roots of various plants underground for two years before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive, intricate 'map-like' pattern of brown and cream/white markings on the forewings, and its stout, furry body typical of swift moths.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a stout, furry body and forewings intricately patterned with shades of brown and cream/white, resembling a map.
